How do you give guests an experience they’ll never forget? Celebrate at the California Academy of Sciences, where we have the art of hosting inspired events down to a science. To book an event, please begin by filling out our inquiry form.

Academy Events

Imagine hors d’œuvres inside Steinhart Aquarium, an underwater wonderland with a living coral reef. Picture a luxurious five-course dinner amidst the dioramas of Tusher African Hall, cocktails as the sun sets over the Living Roof, or a product launch in Morrison Planetarium.

With 15 stunning settings, the Academy can produce anything from an intimate social event, to a successful non-profit fundraiser, to a corporate extravaganza. And it all comes with behind-the-scenes event expertise that ensures the highest standards of excellence. Start here by filling out an inquiry form.

NightLife Private Lounge

Looking for a unique party idea? Want the ultimate party within a party? On Thursday nights the entire Academy transforms into a 21 and over event. Book a NightLife Private Lounge for a private room featuring catering and bar service and your guests will have access to the best Thursday night party in San Francisco. Every Thursday a new adventure unfolds. Enjoy access to all the exhibits with music, creatures and exceptional programming.

Daytime Events and Meetings

Inspire your attendees in one of the Academy’s indoor or outdoor daytime venues. From board meetings, to lectures, to picnics and luncheons from 10 to 280 attendees, our event team is ready to help you plan the perfect event from beginning to end. We will guide you through every step of the process, helping you select the perfect location within the Academy.

Location Shoots

At the California Academy of Sciences, dozens of striking settings offer filmmakers and photographers an exciting range of location options, including a 2.5-acre living roof, aquarium tanks totaling 500,000 gallons, a cafe and restaurant, millions of scientific specimens, gardens, a four-story rainforest, offices and suites, and a full-dome planetarium.

The California Academy of Sciences is a renowned scientific and educational institution dedicated to exploring, explaining, and sustaining life on Earth. Based in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park, it is home to a world-class aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum—all under one living roof.